It’s been a month since the FETC 2025 Conference in Orlando, Florida. It was a whirlwind of energy, learning, and connection. Over the course of several packed days, I presented sessions, signed books, hosted a Walking Food Tour with Lumio, recorded podcasts, and connected with educators and edtech changemakers. What I left with is a message I hope resonates with educators everywhere: There is no digital substitute for in-person conversations and experiences. Here’s a glimpse of my FETC journey, highlighting why events like these are invaluable for educators.
Presenting Sessions: Sharing Practical Solutions with Educators
One of the most rewarding parts of FETC is sharing knowledge and actionable tools with educators. I had the opportunity to present sessions on student podcasting and how instructional coaches can use Notion to streamline their workflows and boost productivity. Each session was met with thoughtful discussions, questions, and those powerful lightbulb moments when you can see the audience connect with a new idea. At the Class Companion booth, I delivered another presentation showcasing how teachers can gain quick insights into student writing through innovative AI assisted edtech solutions. Being on stage or at a booth while engaging directly with fellow educators reaffirms that technology isn’t the heart of education—it’s the people who leverage it to make learning meaningful.
Book Signing at the Meet The Author Experience Booth: A Full-Circle Moment
X-Factor EDU (AKA Matthew Joseph) made it possible for me to give away signed copies of my book at the expo hall Meet The Author Experience booth, a humbling and exciting experience. What made this moment even more powerful was reflecting on the journey. Last year, I stood in the expo hall as a first-time author, signing my very first copy, just a week after my book release. Returning this year to see educators excited to grab a signed copy felt like a full-circle moment—one rooted in growth, gratitude, and a deeper connection to the educators who inspire me daily. Something about giving someone the end result of hard work and dedication fills my heart and makes me realize how blessed I am to have had this experience.
FETC 2024 giving away my first ever autographed copy of my book.
FETC 2025…One year later and it feels just as good!
The EdTech Bites Walking Food Tour: Dessert First, Connections Always
Sponsored by Lumio, the EdTech Bites Walking Food Tour in downtown Orlando brought educators together for an unforgettable culinary adventure. We kicked off the evening with authentic Colombian desserts, hot chocolate, and coffee at Mecatos Bakery, followed by stops at Loading Zone Philly Steaks and The Great Greek Mediterranean Kitchen. Our food tour included indulgent Philly cheesesteaks, crispy fries, flavorful chicken skewers, and light Mediterranean fare to end the night. But this tour wasn’t just about food—it was about creating memories. Breaking bread with educators is more than sharing a meal; it’s a way to build connections, share stories, and inspire collaboration.
MagicSchool AI Pickleball Social: Networking Through Fun
After the food tour, I hit the court at the MagicSchool AI pickleball social event. The evening wasn’t just about burning off calories—it was about working up laughter, making new friends, and strengthening bonds within the edtech community. Seeing familiar faces and catching up with fellow educators in a setting outside the conference walls showed me how important it is to blend work and play. The energy was infectious, and it served as a reminder that collaboration is most powerful when fueled by genuine connections and shared experiences.
Podcasting At FETC: Powerful Stories from Educators
One of the highlights of FETC for me was recording 10 podcast episodes and releasing those episodes in 10 days, thanks to the support of Class Companion. There’s something special about sitting across from someone, face to face, and capturing their authentic story. I connected with incredible educators to discuss topics ranging from AI ethics in education and edtech pet peeves to STEM activities with Legos and personalized learning. One conversation that stood out was with a first-time conference attendee, Roy Francis. As I listened to his excitement, I remembered being in his shoes years ago, wide-eyed and ready to soak it all in. Now, I was on the other side, sharing advice and encouraging him to lean into the experience.
The conversations we had weren’t just interviews—they were connections that inspired deeper reflection and fresh ideas. In-person podcasting taps into that natural flow of conversation that digital spaces can’t replicate. Click on the images below to peep the full episode!
The Heart of FETC: Human Connection
Throughout the conference, I had countless opportunities to connect, collaborate, and create—whether it was seeing familiar faces in the crowd during sessions, talking to educators at vendor booths, or simply sharing a meal. The truth is, no tool, no AI chatbot, and no email can replicate the power of a face-to-face conversation.
Social media and virtual meetings are important, but the magic happens when we come together in person. We’re reminded that behind every edtech solution, every strategy, and every tool is a teacher with a story, a challenge, and a dream.
Reflections and Gratitude
As I wrap up this reflection, I feel immense gratitude for the people and moments that shaped my FETC experience. From presenting and signing books to breaking bread and recording meaningful conversations, I left Orlando with a full heart and a renewed sense of purpose. The biggest takeaway from this conference is one I hope educators everywhere hold onto: Human connection is at the core of what we do.
Whether you’re teaching, coaching, or presenting, remember that the relationships we build in real life will always be the most impactful part of our work. So the next time you see an opportunity to attend a conference, sign up, show up, and connect. The rewards will be far greater than any tool or resource you bring home. Check out the recap video below. Buen provecho!
